Monitoring Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Specialist

About WorldFish

WorldFish is a leading international research organization working to transform aquatic food systems to reduce hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. It collaborates with international, regional, and national partners to co-develop and deliver scientific innovations, evidence for policy, and knowledge to enable equitable and inclusive impact for millions who depend on fish for their livelihoods. As a member of CGIAR, WorldFish contributes to building a food- and nutrition-secure future and restoring natural resources. Headquartered in Penang, Malaysia, with country offices across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, WorldFish strives to create resilient and inclusive food systems for shared prosperity. For more information, visit: www.worldfishcenter.org

About the Position

WorldFish is looking for a highly motivated Monitoring Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Specialist to support the MEL Department at Headquarters. The MEL specialist will be based in Malaysia or in one of the WF offices in Africa or Asia and will contribute to the implementation and management of the monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) system and activities across the organisation.

Under the guidance of the Monitoring and Evaluation Leader, the Monitoring Evaluation and Learning Specialist will provide support and technical assistance to plan, design and inform the deployment of robust MEL system for WorldFish and the CGIAR research portfolio. S/he will support projects and research programs in developing work plans, MEL frameworks, strategy documents, and field activities. By doing this s/he will ensure the WorldFish projects are integrated with and operate alongside the existing MEL framework. S/he will also support the use of the digital platform and Management Information Systems on research, knowledge sharing and data management contributing to a proficient result-based system focused on Aquatic Food Systems.

The successful candidate should have an interest in research for development monitoring and evaluation, be familiar with qualitative and quantitative tools and techniques for analysis, and comprehensive strategies for effective engagement in support of MEL implementation.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the design and implementation of the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) system in WorldFish while ensuring alignment with established Result Based-Management (RBM) and Knowledge Sharing (KS) standards and processes.
• Work closely with researchers, projects, and country teams in developing and reviewing the Theory of Change for projects, country programs, and WorldFish.
• Ensure alignment of various portfolios to existing WorldFish monitoring systems to ensure consistent reporting of deliverables, outputs, and outcomes.
• Support annual planning and reporting processes for WorldFish and the Initiatives.
• Support impact tracking and monitoring protocols to ensure that project/research impacts are well documented and in compliance with WorldFish and CGIAR strategy and objectives.
• Monitor the performance of WorldFish portfolios as per established KPIs and provide key recommendations to leadership to facilitate informed decision-making and knowledge sharing.
• Provide guidance and support to research and project teams in using the MEL web-based platform to ensure effective and real-time monitoring and knowledge sharing across WorldFish.
• Check data quality and integrity and provide recommendations for improvement. This includes reviewing reported results such as outcome and impact indicators.
• Support the development and enhancement of policies tools and processes to strengthen the MEL framework across the organization.
• Provide MEL capacity building and support to staff as needed.

The successful candidate will have:

• A Master's Degree in international development, agricultural economics, or a relevant social science. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree and highly relevant experience will also be considered. Professional training in MEL is a plus.
• At least 5 years of working experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) role(s), with a focus on survey design and report preparation
• A minimum of 3 years of professional experience in the international development sector. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in large, multi-country projects.
• Proficiency in essential computer software/packages such as MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint or similar software.
• Demonstrated technical knowledge of a broad set of monitoring and evaluation methods suitable for use in complex systems.
• Proven capability in project MEL activities, including project planning, implementation, and report writing.
• Experience working on projects focused on aquaculture, agriculture, or fishery science.
• Expertise in managing and curating datasets for decision-making in project implementation.
• Excellent data analysis skills, including the ability to produce tables/graphs with interpretation and make verbal presentations.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with stakeholders, partners and individuals in a multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural environment.
• Motivated to learn and use new information technologies related to MEL and data.
• Excellent proficiency in spoken and written English.

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Strong teamwork and effective cross-cultural interpersonal skills.

• Knowledge and field experience in Africa, Asia, or the Pacific.
• Understanding of qualitative and quantitative research tools, methodologies, and analysis.

This is an Internationally Recruited Staff (IRS) position with annual salary ranging between USD 53,000 - USD 60,000 per annum. WorldFish's IRS shall receive comprehensive health insurance, life insurance, accident, and long-term disability insurance. Internationally recruited staff employed outside of their home base/country of nationality will also be eligible to receive relocation assistance, a housing allowance, home-leave plane tickets for self and eligible dependents and education assistance for school-age dependents between age 4 and high school graduation. The duration of the contract will initially be for a three-year period with possibility for extension, depending on funding and performance. All benefits are subject to terms and conditions.

Your application must include:

• A copy of your curriculum vitae,
• A cover letter which addresses key requirements stated above; and
• Contact information of three professional referees who may be contacted if you are short-listed for the position.

To be considered, applications must be submitted by no later than 24:00 (MYT), 14 July 2024.

Location: The post holder will be based in Penang, Malaysia. This position will involve international travel.

The screening will startimmediately and will continue until the position is filled. Due to the high volume of applicants for WorldFish positions, we appreciate all interest, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Our Gender, Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

WorldFish has seven offices across Asia, Africa and the Pacific, with more than 400 staff and 27 nationalities who contribute to a dynamic multicultural work environment.

WorldFish is committed to promoting a work environment where diversity and inclusion is valued, and we seek to have gender balance in the organization. We aim to also seek balance across other diverse dimensions.

People in WorldFish are treated equally irrespective of gender, ethnicity/race, national or social origin, disability, religion, political affiliation, age, family size, marital status or any other form of personal identity.

We are an equal opportunities employer and strongly encourage qualified women and men from developing nations to apply.